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2024-2025 University Catalog
Imaging Sciences (BS)
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 Return to: Degree and Certificate Programs
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About the Profession
Radiologic imaging science, also known as radiologic technology or medical radiography, is the allied health profession responsible for diagnostic and interventional medical radiographic imaging. Under the supervision of physicians, imaging sciences professionals provide medical imaging services to patients.
Imaging Sciences (BS): Program Overview
The Rush University Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences program offers an opportunity for registered radiologic technologists to advance their education by obtaining a bachelor’s degree and skills that are significant to their current profession. This program offers the radiologic technologist an opportunity for advancement in employment and prepares advanced medical imaging technologists for professional leadership roles.
This program will provide graduates with the knowledge, skills and professional competencies needed to perform advanced-level imaging in computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cardiac-interventional (CI), vascular-interventional (VI) and other advanced imaging modalities.
The Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences is a career ladder program to provide advanced training and education for certified imaging technologists. In addition to the program prerequisites, the program requires a minimum of 65 semester credit hours taken at the upper-division undergraduate level. The professional phase of the program, which consists of imaging sciences coursework and clinical fieldwork, is completed at Rush University and its affiliated clinical sites. The program is dedicated to clinical and academic excellence and includes 1,000 hours of in-hospital clinical practice. As a leadership program in imaging sciences, the program is designed to provide graduates with the opportunity to gain the foundation needed to assume professional leadership roles in clinical practice, clinical specialty areas, education and management.
Students accepted into the professional phase normally begin course work in the fall term of the first year of the program, though students may begin taking classes at other times during the year with permission of the program director. Coursework in the professional phase may be taken on a full-time or part-time basis. Each student will develop an individualized program to be approved by the program director. As a part of the program, graduates will complete the clinical training required to be eligible for post-primary pathway to certification in Computered Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Cardiac-Interventional (CI) or Vascular-Interventional (VI) offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART).
*An entry-level Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) track is available to students who are not licensed in radiography or nuclear medicine. Licensure or eligibility for accreditation in the practice of medical radiation technology by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency is not required for successful completion of the MRI track, as MRI is a non-ionizing imaging modality. The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) entry-level track is recognized as an MRI primary-pathway educational program by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART).
Imaging Sciences (BS): Admission Requirements
Requirements for admission to the professional phase of the Imaging Sciences program include the following:
- Completion of 60 semesters or 90 quarter hours of college or university credit at a regionally accredited college or university.
- Minimum overall GPA of at least 2.5 out of 4.0 in all college/university coursework.
- Prerequisite courses include English composition, college algebra or higher, life sciences (one of which is human anatomy and physiology), physical science, social science, humanities and elective courses. All general education requirements must be met prior to the awarding of the bachelor’s degree.
- Successful completion of program prerequisites with a grade of at least “C” or higher from a regionally accredited college or university.
- Associate degree in medical radiography or nuclear medicine technology (not applicable if applying to the entry-level MRI track) from a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (or the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology. Applicants who have successfully completed an accredited hospital-based program should contact the program director to determine if they may be admitted on this basis.
- Licensure or eligibility for accreditation in the practice of medical radiation technology by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (not applicable if applying to the entry-level MRI track).
- Completed application to the program and submission of official transcripts for all college coursework completed.
- An interview is scheduled for selected applicants following review of the application materials.
- Ability to perform the essential functions of the job.
- All applicants whose native language is not English must present evidence of proficiency in English by satisfactorily completing the Test of English as a Foreign Language examination (TOEFL). More information about this policy is in the main College of Health Sciences section of this catalog.
Prerequisite Courses
| General Education Courses |
Semester Hours |
Quarter Hours |
Two courses in communications
(English composition is required) |
6 |
9 |
One course in mathematics
(college algebra or higher-level math) |
3 |
4 |
Two courses in life sciences
(human anatomy and physiology is required and two semesters are highly recommended. Second course may be in anatomy, biology, microbiology, pathophysiology, physiology or other life science topic.) |
8 |
12 |
One course in physical sciences
(general physics is highly recommended) |
3 |
4 |
One course in social sciences
(i.e., government, history, political science, psychology, sociology) |
3 |
4 |
One course in humanities
(i.e., ethics, fine arts, literature, philosophy. Performance courses do not meet this requirement.) |
3 |
4 |
Elective courses
Courses in communications, computer science, ethics, fine arts, humanities, life sciences, literature, philosophy, physical sciences or social sciences |
34 |
53 |
| Total |
60 |
90 |
Imaging Sciences (BS): Technical Standards
Rush University is committed to diversity and to attracting and educating students who will serve diverse communities locally and nationally.
Our core values — I CARE (innovation, collaboration, accountability, respect and excellence) — translate into our work with all students, including those with disabilities. Rush actively collaborates with students to develop innovative ways to ensure accessibility and creates a respectful, accountable culture through our confidential and specialized disability support. Rush is committed to excellence in accessibility; we encourage students with disabilities to disclose and seek accommodations.
The following technical functions are required of all students enrolled in the Imaging Sciences program:
Acquire Information
- Acquire information from demonstrations and experiences in courses, such as lecture, group and physical demonstrations
- Acquire information from written documents and computer systems (e.g., literature searches and data retrieval)
- Identify information presented in accessible images from paper, slides, videos with audio description and transparencies.
- Recognize and assess patient changes in mood, activity, cognition, verbal and non-verbal communication
Use and Interpret
- Use and interpret information from assessment techniques/maneuvers.
- Use and interpret information related to physiologic phenomena generated from diagnostic tools
Motor
- Possess psychomotor skills necessary to provide or assist in holistic imaging sciences care and perform or assist with procedures and treatments
- Practice in a safe manner and appropriately provide imaging sciences care and assessment in emergencies and life support procedures and perform universal precautions against contamination
Communication
- Communicate effectively and sensitively with patients and families
- Communicate effectively with faculty, preceptors and all members of the health care team during practicum and other learning experiences
- Accurately elicit information including a medical history and other information to adequately and effectively evaluate a population’s, client’s or patient’s condition
Intellectual Ability
- Measure, calculate, reason, analyze and synthesize data related to diagnosis and treatment of patients and populations
- Exercise proper judgment and complete responsibilities in a timely and accurate manner according to the imaging sciences role
- Synthesize information, problem-solve and think critically to judge the most appropriate theory, assessment or treatment strategy
Behavioral
- Maintain mature, sensitive, effective relationships with clients/patients, families, students, faculty, staff, preceptors and other professionals under all circumstances
- Exercise skills of diplomacy to advocate for patients in need
- Possess emotional stability to function under stress and adapt to rapidly changing environments inherent to the classroom and practice settings
Character
- Demonstrate concern for others
- Integrity, accountability, interest and motivation are necessary personal qualities
- Demonstrate intent and desire to follow the Rush University and Imaging Sciences Code of Ethics
The technical standards delineated above must be met with or without accommodation. Students who, after review of the technical standards, determine they require reasonable accommodation to fully engage in the program, should contact the Office of Student Accessibility Services to confidentially discuss their accommodations needs.
Given the clinical nature of our programs, time may be needed to implement the accommodations. Accommodations are never retroactive; therefore, timely requests are essential and encouraged. Contact the Office of Student Accessibility Services to learn more about accommodations at Rush University:
Marie Lusk, MBA, MSW, LSW
Director, Office of Student Accessibility Services
600 S. Paulina St., Suite 901
Chicago, IL 60612
(312) 942-5237
marie_lusk@rush.edu
Imaging Sciences (BS): Academic Policies
Good Academic Standing
High academic performance is expected in required courses. If a student earns grades lower than C or their cumulative GPA falls below a 2.5, the student may not be permitted to register for subsequent courses and may be subject to dismissal from the program. Students who withdraw or who have been dismissed from the program must reapply and will be considered as a new applicant. Students requesting readmission must submit a letter to Admissions.
Academic Probation
During the program, if a student’s performance is unsatisfactory (GPA less than 2.5 or a letter grade of less than C), they may not be permitted to register for subsequent classes. The student will be subject to dismissal from the program. If the student wishes to reenter the program, they must reapply and will be considered on the same basis as any new applicant.
Students who voluntarily withdraw from the program, either passing or failing, have no guarantee of reinstatement to the program. Students requesting readmission to the program should submit a letter to that effect to the Committee on Progress and Promotion for Imaging Sciences.
Advanced Standing
Imaging Sciences:
ARRT Advanced Standing (IS)
Program Overview
Introduction
Individuals may have acquired academic credit in Imaging Sciences courses from other schools and universities. Some individuals may acquire knowledge through experience and on-the-job training. When such persons apply for admission into the program, an attempt is made to grant academic credit for equivalent educational courses, equivalent knowledge acquired from experience and/or successful completion of the certification and registry examinations.
All students graduating from the Imaging Sciences Program must meet the same standards for graduation; the awarding of advanced standing does not signify a lesser quality education than that offered through regular course work. What it does, however, is attempt to exempt the student from those areas of the formal program where the student already has the knowledge and expertise in those skills that would be offered. The program has identified the minimum competencies that imaging science professionals must have to provide safe, high-quality patient care. The identification of these competencies is a complex task, and a great deal of care must be taken to ensure a standard of excellence.
The following policies and procedures are designed to ensure that those individuals who receive advanced standing are qualified to do so and that the screening process adheres to university as well as departmental policies at all times.
To allow individuals who are not qualified, to receive advanced standing, is not in the student’s or the program’s best interest.
Definition
Advanced standing is defined as a special and individually determined status granted to a student in a formal educational setting, who has already gained through other sources or through non‑academic experiences, knowledge, skills and professional attitudes taught in the program courses.
Purpose of Advanced Standing Procedures
The purpose of the advanced standing procedures is to recognize and give formal educational credit for knowledge and/or ability gained through previous training or experience.
Methods of Granting Advanced Standing
1.Advanced standing can be awarded through transfer credit.
2.Advanced standing can be awarded as credit for successful completion of national certification or registry examinations.
Who is Eligible For Advanced Standing?
1. Transfer students (who have been accepted into the Rush University Imaging Sciences Program) may receive transfer credit for equivalent courses within the Imaging Sciences Program curriculum.
2. Credentialed students in an imaging specialty area who have been accepted into the Rush University Imaging Sciences Program may receive credit for certain courses. Specifically, individuals holding an advanced certification in CT, MRI, interventional studies, cardiac studies or PET awarded by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) or other acceptable credentialing agency may be eligible to receive credit based on the advanced certification credential. Such individuals must enroll in and complete a minimum of 36 semester credit hours of coursework at Rush University. Individuals holding the ARRT credential must apply for admission to the program at least 60 days prior to the first day of the quarter in which they wish to begin coursework at Rush. General education prerequisites may be waived for these individuals for admission to the program. All general education requirements must be completed prior to graduation, and all other program requirements apply.
ARRT Advanced Standing (IS): Curriculum
Credit Based on the ARRT Credential
Individuals providing documentation that they hold the ARRT credential may receive credit for the following theory courses specific to specialty:
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Course
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Credits
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IS-328
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Vascular Interventional Technology
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6
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IS-336
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MRI Physics
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5
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IS-337
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Computed Tomography Physics
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3
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IS-340
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MRI Safety
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3
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IS-444
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MRI Positioning and Protocols
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4
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IS-447P
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Clinical Practicum I
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6
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IS-448
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Clinical Seminar I
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3
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IS-449
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Clinical Seminar II
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3
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IS-457P
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Clinical Practicum II
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6
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IS-467P
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Clinical Practicum III
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6
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IS-468
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Clinical Seminar III
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3
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Required Courses
ARRT students must enroll in and complete the following required courses:
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Course
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Credits
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IS-310
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Sectional Anatomy & Pathology
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5
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IS-314
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Pathophysiology
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4
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IS-318
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Patient Assessment
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3
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IS-325
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Pharmacology and Radiologic Contrast Agent
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3
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HSC-364
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Health Care Systems and Policies
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1
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IS-454
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Health Care Ethics and Cultural Competence
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4
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IS-463
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Research & Statistical Methods
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3
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*Electives
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16
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Total: 36 Credit Hours
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Clinical Work
Students must maintain a cumulative GPA in the program of at least 2.5 unless otherwise described in each course syllabus, the minimum satisfactory grade for course credit is 75% (a letter grade of C), and all stipulated segments of a course must be passed by this standard. Students must demonstrate proficiency in all clinical skills presented to pass clinical courses. For all clinical courses, the final exam must be passed at the designated cut score and a grade of C or better must be maintained to successfully complete each clinical practice to continue in the program.
Grievance Policy - Student Appeals
Normal communication regarding course or program policy should be first directed to the instructor assigned to the course or clinical section involved. If the student is unable to satisfy an inquiry or request at that level, the matter should be referred to either the clinical director (in the case of clinical practice) or the department chairperson (in the case of academic coursework or policy). If the matter in question cannot be resolved at that level, it should be directed to the Committee on Progress and Promotions for Imaging Sciences. This committee will either resolve the matter in question to the student’s satisfaction or instruct the student on available mechanisms for appeal as described in the university catalog and university student handbook.
Comprehensive Examination
At the end of the program, the student will complete an end-of-program competency assessment examination, as well as meet graduation and program completion requirements (see Graduation Requirements). Students who do not successfully complete the examination will receive an Incomplete for the third clinical rotation and will retake the examination prior to the beginning of the next semester. Those failing the examination twice will be enrolled in a directed Independent Study during the next term for remediation. Those failing the examination on the third attempt will be subject to dismissal from the program. Those students may reapply to the program (see Procedures for Readmission).
Proctored Exams
The Imaging Sciences Program requires course exams to be proctored and encourages the proctoring to conducted at Rush University. For those students unable to come to Rush University, an official proctoring site may be approved by the program director. Any upfront proctoring charges are the responsibility of the student and will be reimbursed at the end of the semester term.
Procedures for Students Seeking Accommodations
Rush University is committed to attracting and educating students who will help to make the health care profession representative of the national population, including individuals with disabilities. Part of Rush University’s mission is to promote diversity among its student population and to provide equal access to its facilities, programs, services and learning opportunities. In keeping with this mission, the university encourages students with disabilities to engage the Office of Student Accessibility Services as soon as they begin their program.
Students should feel free to contact Marie Ferro-Lusk, director of Student Accessibility Services for Rush University, to engage in a confidential conversation about the process for requesting reasonable accommodations in the classroom and clinical settings. Accommodations are not provided retroactively at the university. Additional information can be found online at the Office of Student Accessibility Services webpage (www.rushu.rush.edu/office-student-accessibility-services) or by contacting the Office of Student Accessibility Services.
To respect student’s privacy and ensure a thoughtful interactive discussion, students should not make accommodation requests to individual faculty members, lecturers, or course directors. Instead, please contact the Office of Student Accessibility Services:
Marie Ferro-Lusk, MBA, MSW, LSW
Director, Office of Student Accessibility Services
(312) 942-5237
marie_s_ferro-lusk@rush.edu
Further information can be found at www.rushu.rush.edu/office-student-accessibility-services
Residency Requirement
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences must complete their final 36 credit hours of course work in-residence at Rush University in order to graduate.
Imaging Sciences (BS): Graduation Requirements
Degree requirements that must be met include the following:
- Satisfactory completion of all general education coursework as listed
- Completion of each required Imaging Sciences professional course with a grade of C or better
- Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better
- Successfully complete a comprehensive end-of-program competency assessment
- Completion of 16 hours of community service
- Successful completion of the Professional Roadmaps to Opportunities (PRO) Seminar series as outlined in the student’s program handbook.
Imaging Sciences (BS): Curriculum
Core Courses Required of All Students
Imaging Sciences (BS): Computed Tomography (CT) Track
Program Total: 65 Credit Hours
NOTE: All professional, leadership and clinical courses require a grade of C or better for the student to continue in the Imaging Sciences degree program course sequence. Failure to complete an Imaging Sciences professional course with a letter grade of C or better will subject the student to review by the Committee on Progress and Promotions and may result in the student being dismissed from the program. Students readmitted to the program at times other than the fall term of the second year will pick up the course sequence as prescribed by the Committee on Progress and Promotions for Imaging Sciences.
Imaging Sciences (BS): Interventional Radiography (VI/CI) Track
Program Total: 65 Credit Hours
NOTE: All professional, leadership and clinical courses require a grade of C or better for the student to continue in the Imaging Sciences degree program course sequence. Failure to complete an Imaging Sciences professional course with a letter grade of C or better will subject the student to review by the Committee on Progress and Promotions and may result in the student being dismissed from the program. Students readmitted to the program at times other than the fall term of the second year will pick up the course sequence as prescribed by the Committee on Progress and Promotions for Imaging Sciences.
Imaging Sciences (BS): Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Track (ARRT Students)
Credit by ARRT Proficiency
Program Total: 74 Credit Hours (Six credits through AART Proficiency)
Note: All professional, leadership and clinical courses require a grade of C or better for the student to continue in the Imaging Sciences degree program course sequence. Failure to complete an Imaging Sciences professional course with a letter grade of C or better will subject the student to review by the Committee on Progress and Promotions and may result in the student being dismissed from the program. Students readmitted to the program at times other than the fall term of the second year will pick up the course sequence as prescribed by the Committee on Progress and Promotions for Imaging Sciences.
Imaging Sciences (BS): Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Curriculum
The Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences’ Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) track was originally designed to accommodate applicants licensed in radiography or nuclear medicine. Since then, there has been increased interest from unlicensed, highly qualified applicants. This entry level MRI track adds three additional patient care courses to the existing MRI curriculum. These courses will serve as bridge courses to provide those students who are unlicensed in radiography or nuclear medicine the academic content needed to be successful in the program.
Program Total: 74 Credit Hours
Note: All professional, leadership and clinical courses require a grade of C or better for the student to continue in the Imaging Sciences degree program course sequence. Failure to complete an Imaging Sciences professional course with a letter grade of C or better will subject the student to review by the Committee on Progress and Promotions and may result in the student being dismissed from the program. Students readmitted to the program at times other than the fall term of the second year will pick up the course sequence as prescribed by the Committee on Progress and Promotions for Imaging Sciences.
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